I got into a philosophical debate with a friend recently (actually it was more like "us against our conscience") as to whether or not we are judgmental people. He claimed we were hypersensitive, highly aware 'people watchers'; I was playing for the 'we were caddy and borderline cruel' team. The conversation didn't last long and had no definitive resolution-yet afterward, it got me thinking of what I notice about people via first impression; how often I assume one thing and stamp him or her as "that kind of person". I'm pulled in two directions here. Many sources...from the Bible to my ex (what a gamut) have said 'judge not' yet we are told about the importance of first impressions: the clothing, the firm handshake the eye contact-be it an interview, audition or first date. Most every thing about this bothers me, but it's a fact of life (kind of like the show Glee). As I mentioned in last week's post, there are many variables that as singers we rarely relate to performing-whether it be in an audition or a late night rowdy gig. Whether you are a big 'ol cad or a Meek Milly who's just landed in vulture city, sometimes you have to fight fire with fire. You may not like it, but YOU are judged-and picking up on others' mannerisms, body language and overall demeanor can help you gain an understanding of who and why people 'are' the way they are...at least in the moment. Being one step ahead of the game in this sense can deter factors that welcome nerves during crucial moments.
I'm going to put aside the audition room and speak on performing in general. Be it song choice, banter or energy level, too often performers who are prepared and talented leave no room for the 'room'. This is easier thwarted in a non musical theater setting where a third wall isn't present (although many musical theater singers carry their persona through EVERY setting). Bottom line: if you find yourself getting nervous after all this other 'stuff' is out of the way, perhaps you haven't considered reading YOUR room. Is everyone drunk? Have they been waiting long? Is it an older crowd? These are quick (and I do mean QUICK) observations that can lead to an easier time...especially if your life experience is a little behind your fellow bards. You can counter the drunk insult, laugh off the old man snoring in the back row and be prepared for what would have normally set you asunder.
I was at my third callback for a piano/vocal broadway role last year (gee, one guess what that would be) and I remember sitting down to take a deep breath before beginning. Immediately, without warning, someone on the panel yelled rudely..."well, there's black ones and there's white ones, honey." Ok, I'm laughing now, but at that time I was NOT laughing; what an asshole; and yes, it got my heart racing. Would it affect me as such if I did it again? Probably not. Believe it or not, the 'assess and diagnose' elements of my music education training have helped me to identify and examine people as people be it in a music setting or social situation. I think if I would have given the panel a quicker once over I would have read an energy there (now I just expect it) that would have made this miserable person's comment far less off putting. You have to get out there and people watch..and I don't mean on a park bench! Bars, department stores, restaurants, theater lobbies, concerts or protests (wear headgear please). It aids you in an understanding of what makes others' tick and also helps you to readily dismiss the rage/nerve/stress response. Whether you call is assessing, observing, judging or reading; let yourself go a little bit. Keep it to yourself and use it to your advantage. See the best in others but know that stereotyping your audience is natural-be it a casting director or a nursing home.
Next week I'll get into a little heartbreak and a whole lot of lovin'! As usual, my disclaimer stands firm-these are off the beaten path elements designed to aid you in areas you may not have explored. Some people are hard to read, but believe you me...24 hours a day, 7 nights a week...as entertainer RuPaul has mentioned numerous times: "The library is OPEN".
Breathe deep, friends :)
No comments:
Post a Comment